The Lazy Girl’s Trick to Dressing Fancy

Two of fashion’s most influential ladies — Jenna Lyons and Grace Coddington — debuted silky, pajama-like ensembles at the 2015 Met Gala, setting them apart from the sea of elegant gowns and over-the-top ensembles. Shocking? Yes. But, stylish? Most definitely. So how exactly do you pull of this ultra laid-back look without channeling some seriously sloppy vibes? Just follow Jenna and Grace’s lead.

1. Say no to sweats. You might see this as a free pass to wear your favorite not-so-Sunday-best out at a fancy restaurant, but it’s not. The first rule of wearing a PJ-inspired getup out in public is to keep your look feeling put-together. Try picking up a few pieces that channel that same casual, comfy vibe, without the worn look of your actual PJs. After that, add a few accoutrements for the ultimate evening-appropriate feel. A rhinestone-studded lattice overlay did just that for Jenna Lyons’ striking white set.

2. Choose the right fabrics. Cotton, fleece and terry cloth are a no-go. If you’re going to rock this look, opt for silk ($121), which feels undeniably luxe and falls nicely over the body.

3. Pick polished accessories. Take a pass on those trainers and pair your pajama-like set with classy kicks and a smart accessory or two. Flats run the risk of looking too much like slippers, so sticking with heels or platforms is your best bet. Other details that will make this Sunday-morning-inspired ensemble feel street-ready are statement clutches, like Jenna’s metallic number, or edgy, statement-making jewelry. That being said, subtle drop earrings and a classic black clutch can work just as nicely for creating an elegant, classy look.

4. Ditch the bedhead. The goal here is not to look like you just rolled out of bed. Skip the untamed ‘dos and (sadly) those bomb half top knots for sleek, side-swept locks or a pulled-together updo. Can’t part with your fave lazy-girl hairstyles? Just make sure the rest of your details feel refined.

5. Get (sort of) dolled up. By no means do you have to put on a full face, but a quick swipe of mascara, glowing skin and a touch of color on the lips will do this look some good. Rocking an #iwokeuplikethis look might end up coming off more as #icanteven.

6. Pick your prints wisely. If you want something a little more exciting than plain old black (even though it is a solid option), skip the cutesy patterns (hearts, teddy bears and the like) and go for sophisticated geometric, abstract ($70) or floral ($160) prints instead. For the Met Gala, Grace Coddington’s cherry blossom print was perfectly on point.

7. Mix and match. Not feeling the whole matchy-matchy thing? Treat the top ($16) like you would any silk shirt and pair it up with jeans, a leather pencil skirt or your favorite trousers ($224). Then tuck it in or roll up the sleeves for a touch of instant, effortless chic. Or, you could wear the pants ($109) on their own with a classic button-down, tee or a flirty crop top and your favorite pumps.

8. Pay attention to fit. It’s all about finding the right balance. Go too loose and you’ll look sloppy, but too tight, well, let’s just say that isn’t so hot either. The best way to wear the trend is by choosing separates that allow for movement but still manage to hint at your silhouette.

Will you be giving this ultra casual style a go? How would you make it your own? Tell us in the comments!

Libby MacCarthy is an urban planner turned writer with a love (bordering on unhealthy obsession) of all things fashion and beauty related. She lives for perfectly brewed coffee, farmer's markets, dinner parties and perusing impeccably designed boutiques. When she's not on the hunt for the latest trends, you'll likely find her plotting her next adventure or nose deep in a book. Libby currently splits her time between the East Coast and her adopted home of France. Follow her daily adventures on Instagram.